Which fundamental gas do humans and other animals require from the atmosphere to survive during respiration?

The question asks about the gas required for respiration. Respiration is the process by which organisms convert nutrients into energy.

• A. Nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere but is not directly used by animals for respiration.
• B. Carbon Dioxide is a waste product of respiration, not a gas required for it.
• C. Hydrogen is not a gas required for respiration.
• D. Oxygen is essential for aerobic respiration, where it is used to break down glucose and release energy.

Humans and other animals require oxygen from the atmosphere for survival during respiration.

The final answer is $\boxed{\text{D. Oxygen}}$.